Simon School Venture Fund

Overview

The Simon School Venture Fund (SSVF) is an early-stage seed fund managed by MBA and Master's students at the University of Rochester's Simon Business School. Established in 2013, the fund is supported by alumni donations and aims to offer students practical experience in venture capital, private equity, and entrepreneurship. Guided by an alumni advisory board comprising venture capitalists, successful entrepreneurs, and professionals from various fields, SSVF provides hands-on due diligence, interaction with entrepreneurs, presentations to advisory board members, direct participation in investment decisions, and ongoing monitoring and analysis of investments. The fund focuses on U.S.-based startups with high growth potential and scalable business models, offering up to $25,000 in initial funding. As a subsidiary of the University of Rochester, SSVF leverages the university's extensive resources and alumni network to support portfolio companies and assist them in growth and scaling. This includes access to a network of student professionals, world-class entrepreneurial advisors, and business development projects. The fund's mission is to create a unique experiential learning opportunity for students in venture capital, private equity, and entrepreneurship, aiming to make sound investment decisions based on comprehensive due diligence and investment analysis to perpetuate the life of the fund. SSVF is made possible through the generous support of Simon's alumni network, reflecting their commitment to 'paying it forward' and fostering the next generation of business leaders and innovators. The fund's advisory board consists of successful entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and professionals from various disciplines, providing guidance and oversight to ensure the fund's success and alignment with its educational objectives. Through its operations, SSVF not only supports the growth of promising startups but also enriches the educational experience of Simon Business School students, preparing them for successful careers in venture capital and entrepreneurship. The fund's activities complement Simon's array of entrepreneurship educational options, including the school's student startup incubator at High Tech Rochester and the annual Mark Ain Business Model Competition, underscoring Simon's commitment to providing rigorous and meaningful experiential learning opportunities for its students. By engaging in real-world investment activities, SSVF students gain valuable insights into investment selection and portfolio management, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application in the field of venture capital.

Investment Focus

• U.S.-based startups
• High growth potential
• Scalable business models
• Initial traction (product, sales)